If The Shoe Fits....Cinderella Stories and the Role of Women
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A joint effort by Elizabeth Nelson and Michelle Dupuis. The resource list created is intended to be used with high school students in order to examine and discuss the role of women as depicted in traditional folklore and the changing role of women in society. The unit is meant to be a collaboration between ELAR, Sociology, and Library staff. The intent is for students to interact with traditional folklore by way of print picture books and then use Cinderella-based novels and films to examine how the role of women was traditionally shown in folklore and how it has evolved or not evolved in film and novel adaptations. Therefore, most resources are in print format.
Table Created on 4/16/13 by E. Nelson
Print Resources
Book Jacket Art
Afanasyev, Alexander. Vasilisa the Beautiful and Baba Yaga. Illus. by Ivan Bilibin. 2012. 32p. The Plant
Books. $7.99 (978-1908478931)
*This Russian folktale was originally recorded by the author in the middle of the 19th century. The illustration were created in 1905 and the text was translated in 1912. Vasilisa the Beautiful and Baba Yaga is a traditional Russian folktale. The story combines elements of at least three different well known fairy tales. Vasilisa is an obvious Cinderella complete with an evil stepmother and stepsisters. Also, found within the story are a fairy godmother of sorts in the form of a tiny doll which comes to life and aids Vasilisa in times of need. And Vasilisa does meet and marry her "handsome prince" in the form of a Tsar. However, the similarities to Cinderella end there. The inclusion of Baba Yaga, an evil witch with the disturbing habit of trapping and threatening to eat young women, is reminiscent of Hansel and Gretel. And, upon her escape from Baby Yaga and the subsequent deaths of her stepmother and stepsisters, Vasilisa lives with an old woman. While there, she weaves the finest cloth ever seen and is therefore introduced to the Tsar. This inclusion brings in elements of Rumplestilskin.
The illustrations by Bilibin are done in the classic Russian style. Each illustration shows traditional dress and iconic elements found in classis Russian art. While culturally authentic and beautiful, the artwork is at time disturbing. The inclusion of bare female chests and a boneyard surrounding Baba Yaga's cottage means that educators should take into consideration the maturity level of the audience before presenting the illustrations.
This work was included for the cultural differences in the story as well as several strong female presences.
Review completed by E. Nelson 04/17/13
Book Jacket Art
Brown, Marcia. Cinderella. Illus. by Marcia Brown. 1954. 32p. Antheneum. $17.95 (978-0-684-12676-0)
This version of Cinderella is translated from the French version by Perrault. The plot is simple and direct; it follows the story of Cinderella as most know it. Through the story we learn a lesson about being kind to others. Cinderella did everything her stepmother and sisters expected of her with no complaints. She did not give them a hard time or turn ugly herself; she was cooperative and kind even in her misery. At the end of the story she is rewarded for her behavior; her internal beauty is finally able to shine through and show her beauty externally. The stepmother was described in the story as being the “proudest and most haughtiest woman that was ever seen.” (Brown) At the end of the story the stepsisters and stepmother are humbled and shocked to find that Cinderella is the mysterious Princess. The stepsisters beg Cinderella for forgiveness and in her kindness she gives it to them.
The images included in the story have a French flair to them; the clothing and the setting seem Parisian. Reading through this story one can tell that it came from the European version because of the setting, characters, and clothing. Cinderella’s dress is reminiscent of the clothing of Marie Antoinette. The story itself is a general story line that could take place in many cultures.
This story shows a woman who is strong enough to overcome her situation without bitterness and eventually marry a Prince.
Review completed by M. Dupuis 4/17/13
Book Jacket Art
Coburn, Jewell Reinhart. Domitila. Illus. by Connie McLennan. 2000. 32p. Shen's. $17.95
(978-1-885008-13-8)
This story is crafted using similar elements from the tale of Cinderella. In this story, Domitila is born to a wonderful caring family who raises her up to be a respectful caring child. Domitila’s mother becomes ill and Domitila wants to help, so she decides to work for a wealthy family as a cook. She follows her mother’s directions, and does everything with care, and adds a generous dash of love. While Domitila is working her mother passes away, leaving her with her father. A stepmother is introduced into the story, and she tries to steal the wealthy man for her own daughter.
The tale is rich in Spanish language, which adds a cultural element to the story. Traditional Mexican clothing is worn throughout the story, with vibrant colors and beautiful woven patterns. Images within the story include beautiful handmade terra cotta pottery painted with delicate designs. The story also shows the importance of family in the Mexican culture; we can see how much Domitila values her mother, and wishes to help and take care of her.
The author has studied many cultures and lived in other countries so one can see that she was very prepared for this story. The author actually set the story in a real town in Mexico called Hidalgo.
This story was selected because it represents another culture in our Cinderella series. Domitila is another strong woman who clings to her values during hard times and pulls through.
Review completed by M. Dupuis 4/17/13
Book Jacket Art
Hickox, Rebecca. The Golden Sandal: A Middle Eastern Cinderella Story. Illus. by Will Hillenbrand. 1998.
32p. Holiday House. $7.99 (978-0-8234-1513-7) The Golen Sandal is based on an folktale from Iraq called "The Little Red Fish and the Clog of Gold". This Middle Eastern rendition of the classic tale of Cinderella is full of wonderful cultural details. These details make the story both familiar and a welcome change from the norm. In this version of the tale Maha convinces her fisherman father to marry the widow who cares for her after her mother's death. Like the familiar French tale, the relationship between the child and her stepmother is fraught with hardship and malice. Unlike the known version, Maha is helped by a red fish who eases her way to a life of love. There is no royal ball in this tale, rather the ritual of preparing a bride for a wedding which leads to the loss of a shoe and the finding of love. Also, highlighted are the tradition of families arranging marriages and the selection of the bride by the mother of the would be groom.
The illustrations created on vellum and then underpainted and mounted on wax tissue and bristol board are a perfect accompanyment to the tale. No detail is overlooked. The background shows appropriate achitechtue and landscape details. The clothing is correct including the headscarves work by the people of Iraq. The soft coloring of each piece of art blends the world of men with that of the desert surrounding it.
This work was selected for the strong cultural aspects and the different role of women which occur within the text and culture.
Review completed by E.Nelson 04/17/13
Book Jacket Art
Louie, Ai-Ling. Yeh-Shen: A Cinderella Story from China. Illus. by Ed Young. 1999. 32 p. Puffin. $7.99
(978-0-698-11388-6)
Yeh-Shen: A Cinderella Story from China is a beautifully illustrated Chinese folk tale that illustrates the story of Yeh-Shen, an orphan who is being raised by her stepmother. Yeh-Shen’s story begins when her father Chief Wu has daughters with each of his two wives. Yeh-Shen’s mother becomes very ill shortly after birth, and dies, her father dies as well. Yeh-Shen is hated by her stepmother, and she will do anything to make her unhappy. Yeh-Shen’s only friend is a fish with golden eyes; in Chinese culture fish are a sign of abundance and affluence. (Wikipedia) This appears to be foreshadowing the life that Yeh-Shen will have once she is grown. As a child she has this beautiful pet, and he takes care of her until she gets older, and then he shows her what her life is to be. Her beautiful goldfish gave her the magic shoes which led her to the King and changed her life.
The story was told through many generations in the author, Ai-Ling Louie’s family. The illustrator made two trips to China in order to properly research the traditions, costumes, and customs of the characters in the tale. (Louie) The illustrator created ornate, detailed, and intricate clothing for all the characters. When Yeh-Shen is transformed in the fancy clothing, and shoes of the fish she herself begins to look like a fish; the clothing is a rich green and blue with shimmery scales.
This story shows a strong woman who overcomes her obstacles and gets the life she deserves.
Review completed by M. Dupuis 4/17/13
Book Jacket Art
Manna, Anthony L. and Soula Mitakidou. The Orphan: A Cinderella Story from Greece. Illus. by Giselle Potter.
2011. 32p. Schwartz & Wade. $16.99 (978-0-375-86691-3) The Orphan: A Cinderella Story from Greece is based on a combination of two versions of the tale found in Greek folktales. The title of the tale is based on an old Greek saying which states that a child becomes an orphan when he/she loses his/her mother. Many of the story elements follow the traditional French tale. However, there are some distinct cultural differences. Instead of a ball, the Orphan loses her shoe at church. The fairy godmother is replaced by mother nature and the spirit of the Orphan's dead mother. The inclusion of religious elements such as going to church and the crown of stars which is worn provide further cultural markers for the reader. Contrary to tradition, this Cinderella goes and finds the prince once she knows he is searching for her.
The illustrations in the tale depict traditional architecture and clothing common to Greece. The watercolor depictions add to the authenticity of the work. Cobblestone paths and olive trees are seen throughout the illustrations and help to solidify location and era.
This work was selected for the cultural markers and the straying from the traditional rescue by the prince and the strong character and determination of the Orphan.
Review completed by E. Nelson 04/17/13
Book Jacket Art
Martin, Rafe. The Rough-Face Girl. Illus. by David Shannon. 1992. 32p. Putnam. $7.99 (978-0-698-11626-9) The Rough-Face Girl is a shortened version of an Algonquin Indian tale. It is, at it's heart a Cinderella story. The Rough-Face Girl was treated cruelly by her sisters. She was made to tend the fire which led to sparks burning her face and arms. In this tale, the sisters are by birth and not marriage. In many ways this makes the cruelty worse. Also present is magic. This magic does not come in the form of a fairy godmother, but rather in the form of the invisible being and his sister. Many women want to marry the invisible being, but only the one who can see him may have the honor. Rough-Face Girls beautiful but cruel sisters try to marry the being but fail. The Rough-Face Girl, however, succeeds where others fail with her ability to see the beauty around her. She answers the questions posed to her and is chosen to marry the invisible being. She is sent to bath in the water and emerges as beautiful on the outside as she is on the inside. The details within the story lend to its cultural authenticity. And the universal theme of goodness prevailing over malice is wonderfully present.
The illustrations are wonderful in their depiction of life on Lake Ontario. The details are accurate and precise. The varying shades of skin and hair present a beautiful representation of the Algonquin people. Cultural details such as housing and utensils are present and correct. Overall, the illustrations make the story more rich and accurate.
This tale was selected for it's (its) North American cultural details. The richness of text and illustrations present a version of Cinderella which is unique to the continent.
Review completed by E. Nelson 04/17/13
Book Jacket Art
Onyefulu, Obi. Chinye. Illus. by Evie Safarewicz. 1995. 32p. F. Lincoln. $8.95 (978-1-8450-178-3)
This story is a West African folktale which contains some elements that link it to Cinderella. Chinye is a young woman whose parents have passed away and left her with a stepmother who does not like her. Chinye is forced to do all of the work and she does it without complaining. Chinye is a good woman and she does what she is told. One night Chinye is sent into the forest to bring back water; the forest is scary at night and Chinye is afraid. During her venture in the forest Chinye meets and old woman who tells her of the gourds. Chinye takes the woman’s advice and selects the smallest quietest gourd, not knowing what is in it. She is a strong character, she puts up with abuse from her stepmother and stepsister, she does not allow the abuse to break her, and she manages to trust the old woman by taking the small gourd. When Chinye discovers her riches within the small gourd, she first tells her stepmother and does not hide it from her.
The imagery in the selection contains bright bold African art. All of the clothing has bright geometric shapes and designs. The story was written by Obi Onyefulu who is a native of Onitsha, Nigeria where this tale originated. The story is based on her own culture.
This selection was included because we can see that Chinye is a strong woman and as the story progresses she becomes stronger and independent.
Review completed by M. Dupuis. 4/17/13
Book Jacket Art
Perrault, Charles. Cinderella. Illus. by Debbie Lavreys. 2010. 32p. Clavis. $16.95 (978-1605370637)
This version of Cinderella is based on Charles Perrault's French tale. The tale is one which most people are familiar. This version includes all of the classic elements of the tale including the cruel stepmother and sisters as well as the fairy godmother. The inclusion of noblemen and castles place the setting in Europe, though specifics as to the geography are missing. Nowhere within the story are specific cultural markers which name the tale as French in origin.
The illustrations are whimsical in nature. The color pallet is dominated with purple and yellow tones which lends to a cohesion of the artwork. However, the illustrations do not significantly lend to any cultural location. That being said, they do not detract from the folktale but rather give a modern element to it lending to the universal theme and timelessness of the tale.
This version of the tale was selected due to it's (its) nature as a translation of the French version. This is possibly the weakest of the versions selected.
Review completed by E. Nelson 04/17/13
Media Resources
Ever After Theater Poster
Ever After. Dir. Andy Tennant. Perf. Drew Barrymore, Angelica Houston, Dougray Scott. Twentieth Century Fox, 1998. DVD.
After the death of her father, Danielle is made the servant of her mean stepmother. She also has two stepsisters, one who is nice and one who is vain and cruel. Enter a handsome prince who has troubles of his own and Da Vinci and you get a different take on the traditional tale.
A Cinderella Story theatrical poster
A Cinderella Story. Dir. Clifford Webber. Perf. Hilary Duff, Chad Michael Murray. Warner Bros., 2004. DVD.
Intent on attending Princeton, Sam works hard for her obsessed stepmom while putting up with her hateful stepsister. Pen pals Sam and Nomad talk about their dreams and meet unknowingly at a school dance. Sam leaves behind her cell phone and magic ensues. Eventually, Sam and Austin "Nomad" find each other, Sam is accepted to Princeton, and everyone lives happily ever after.
Ella Enchanted Theatrical Poster
Ella Enchanted. Dir. Tommy O'Haver. Perf. Anne Hathaway, Hugh Dancy, Cary Elwes. Miramax, 2004. DVD.
Ella is cursed to always be obediant in the twist on Cinderella. Unlike Cinderella, Ella's troubles are caused by her Fairy Godmother's gift and she must rely on herself to overcome it.
Enchanted Poster
Enchanted. Dir. Kevin Lima. Perf. Amy Adams, Patrick Dempsey, James Marsden. Disney, 2007. DVD.
This mix of animation and live action is a twist on the classis tale of Cinderella with a mix of other fairy tales. Giselle, a would be princess is pushed down a wishing well by the evil queen. Giselle finds herself in New York and discovers that she has th power to not only be rescued but to rescue those she loves.
Cinderella | [Jacob Grimm, Wilhelm Grimm]
Grimm, Jacob, and Wilhelm Grimm. Cinderella. Narrated by Jenny Day. 2006. PC Treasures. $1.95. Audiobook.
Traditional telling of the Brother's Grimm version of Cinderella.
Selected due to author and content. Alternative format to picture book for differentiated instruction.
Web Resources - Selected websites to facilitate selection of additional materials and learning outcomes.
San Souci, Robert D. Sootface. Illus. by Daniel San Souci. 1997. 32p. Dragonfly Books. $6.99
(978-0440413639)
Sootfaceis an Obijwa Cinderella tale. A widow raises his three daughters alone. The youngest is tormented by her older siblings. She dreams of a warrior husband of her own. Her kindness makes her dreams possible.
*This selection is included by recommendation of Dr. J. Moriellon and in response to more favorable reviews than other selections.
Glass Slipper Gold Sandal book jacket
Fleischman, Paul. Glass Slipper, Gold Sandal: A Worldwide Cinderella. Illus. by Julie Paschkis. 2007. 32p. Henry Holt & Co. $16.95 (978-0805079531)
Glass Slipper, Gold Sandal: A Worldwide Cinderella merges worldwide versions of Cinderella into one story. The author transitions from one version to another with the help of illustrations by Julie Paschkis.
*This selection is included by recommendation of Dr. J. Moriellon.
DVD cover
Die Welt der Marchen. Dir. Francesco Stefani. Dir. Gottfried Kolditz. Perf. Christel Bodenstein, Charles Hans Vogt. 1957. DVD.
This is the Czech version of Cinderella and is a holiday favorite of the region.
*This version is included but was not available for review at the time of this resource development.
If The Shoe Fits....Cinderella Stories and the Role of Women
A joint effort by Elizabeth Nelson and Michelle Dupuis. The resource list created is intended to be used with high school students in order to examine and discuss the role of women as depicted in traditional folklore and the changing role of women in society. The unit is meant to be a collaboration between ELAR, Sociology, and Library staff. The intent is for students to interact with traditional folklore by way of print picture books and then use Cinderella-based novels and films to examine how the role of women was traditionally shown in folklore and how it has evolved or not evolved in film and novel adaptations. Therefore, most resources are in print format.
Table Created on 4/16/13 by E. Nelson
Print Resources
Books. $7.99 (978-1908478931)
*This Russian folktale was originally recorded by the author in the middle of the 19th century. The illustration were created in 1905 and the text was translated in 1912.
Vasilisa the Beautiful and Baba Yaga is a traditional Russian folktale. The story combines elements of at least three different well known fairy tales. Vasilisa is an obvious Cinderella complete with an evil stepmother and stepsisters. Also, found within the story are a fairy godmother of sorts in the form of a tiny doll which comes to life and aids Vasilisa in times of need. And Vasilisa does meet and marry her "handsome prince" in the form of a Tsar. However, the similarities to Cinderella end there. The inclusion of Baba Yaga, an evil witch with the disturbing habit of trapping and threatening to eat young women, is reminiscent of Hansel and Gretel. And, upon her escape from Baby Yaga and the subsequent deaths of her stepmother and stepsisters, Vasilisa lives with an old woman. While there, she weaves the finest cloth ever seen and is therefore introduced to the Tsar. This inclusion brings in elements of Rumplestilskin.
The illustrations by Bilibin are done in the classic Russian style. Each illustration shows traditional dress and iconic elements found in classis Russian art. While culturally authentic and beautiful, the artwork is at time disturbing. The inclusion of bare female chests and a boneyard surrounding Baba Yaga's cottage means that educators should take into consideration the maturity level of the audience before presenting the illustrations.
This work was included for the cultural differences in the story as well as several strong female presences.
Review completed by E. Nelson 04/17/13
This version of Cinderella is translated from the French version by Perrault. The plot is simple and direct; it follows the story of Cinderella as most know it. Through the story we learn a lesson about being kind to others. Cinderella did everything her stepmother and sisters expected of her with no complaints. She did not give them a hard time or turn ugly herself; she was cooperative and kind even in her misery. At the end of the story she is rewarded for her behavior; her internal beauty is finally able to shine through and show her beauty externally. The stepmother was described in the story as being the “proudest and most haughtiest woman that was ever seen.” (Brown) At the end of the story the stepsisters and stepmother are humbled and shocked to find that Cinderella is the mysterious Princess. The stepsisters beg Cinderella for forgiveness and in her kindness she gives it to them.
The images included in the story have a French flair to them; the clothing and the setting seem Parisian. Reading through this story one can tell that it came from the European version because of the setting, characters, and clothing. Cinderella’s dress is reminiscent of the clothing of Marie Antoinette. The story itself is a general story line that could take place in many cultures.
This story shows a woman who is strong enough to overcome her situation without bitterness and eventually marry a Prince.
Review completed by M. Dupuis 4/17/13
(978-1-885008-13-8)
This story is crafted using similar elements from the tale of Cinderella. In this story, Domitila is born to a wonderful caring family who raises her up to be a respectful caring child. Domitila’s mother becomes ill and Domitila wants to help, so she decides to work for a wealthy family as a cook. She follows her mother’s directions, and does everything with care, and adds a generous dash of love. While Domitila is working her mother passes away, leaving her with her father. A stepmother is introduced into the story, and she tries to steal the wealthy man for her own daughter.
The tale is rich in Spanish language, which adds a cultural element to the story. Traditional Mexican clothing is worn throughout the story, with vibrant colors and beautiful woven patterns. Images within the story include beautiful handmade terra cotta pottery painted with delicate designs. The story also shows the importance of family in the Mexican culture; we can see how much Domitila values her mother, and wishes to help and take care of her.
The author has studied many cultures and lived in other countries so one can see that she was very prepared for this story. The author actually set the story in a real town in Mexico called Hidalgo.
This story was selected because it represents another culture in our Cinderella series. Domitila is another strong woman who clings to her values during hard times and pulls through.
Review completed by M. Dupuis 4/17/13
32p. Holiday House. $7.99 (978-0-8234-1513-7)
The Golen Sandal is based on an folktale from Iraq called "The Little Red Fish and the Clog of Gold". This Middle Eastern rendition of the classic tale of Cinderella is full of wonderful cultural details. These details make the story both familiar and a welcome change from the norm. In this version of the tale Maha convinces her fisherman father to marry the widow who cares for her after her mother's death. Like the familiar French tale, the relationship between the child and her stepmother is fraught with hardship and malice. Unlike the known version, Maha is helped by a red fish who eases her way to a life of love. There is no royal ball in this tale, rather the ritual of preparing a bride for a wedding which leads to the loss of a shoe and the finding of love. Also, highlighted are the tradition of families arranging marriages and the selection of the bride by the mother of the would be groom.
The illustrations created on vellum and then underpainted and mounted on wax tissue and bristol board are a perfect accompanyment to the tale. No detail is overlooked. The background shows appropriate achitechtue and landscape details. The clothing is correct including the headscarves work by the people of Iraq. The soft coloring of each piece of art blends the world of men with that of the desert surrounding it.
This work was selected for the strong cultural aspects and the different role of women which occur within the text and culture.
Review completed by E.Nelson 04/17/13
(978-0-698-11388-6)
Yeh-Shen: A Cinderella Story from China is a beautifully illustrated Chinese folk tale that illustrates the story of Yeh-Shen, an orphan who is being raised by her stepmother. Yeh-Shen’s story begins when her father Chief Wu has daughters with each of his two wives. Yeh-Shen’s mother becomes very ill shortly after birth, and dies, her father dies as well. Yeh-Shen is hated by her stepmother, and she will do anything to make her unhappy. Yeh-Shen’s only friend is a fish with golden eyes; in Chinese culture fish are a sign of abundance and affluence. (Wikipedia) This appears to be foreshadowing the life that Yeh-Shen will have once she is grown. As a child she has this beautiful pet, and he takes care of her until she gets older, and then he shows her what her life is to be. Her beautiful goldfish gave her the magic shoes which led her to the King and changed her life.
The story was told through many generations in the author, Ai-Ling Louie’s family. The illustrator made two trips to China in order to properly research the traditions, costumes, and customs of the characters in the tale. (Louie) The illustrator created ornate, detailed, and intricate clothing for all the characters. When Yeh-Shen is transformed in the fancy clothing, and shoes of the fish she herself begins to look like a fish; the clothing is a rich green and blue with shimmery scales.
This story shows a strong woman who overcomes her obstacles and gets the life she deserves.
Review completed by M. Dupuis 4/17/13
2011. 32p. Schwartz & Wade. $16.99 (978-0-375-86691-3)
The Orphan: A Cinderella Story from Greece is based on a combination of two versions of the tale found in Greek folktales. The title of the tale is based on an old Greek saying which states that a child becomes an orphan when he/she loses his/her mother. Many of the story elements follow the traditional French tale. However, there are some distinct cultural differences. Instead of a ball, the Orphan loses her shoe at church. The fairy godmother is replaced by mother nature and the spirit of the Orphan's dead mother. The inclusion of religious elements such as going to church and the crown of stars which is worn provide further cultural markers for the reader. Contrary to tradition, this Cinderella goes and finds the prince once she knows he is searching for her.
The illustrations in the tale depict traditional architecture and clothing common to Greece. The watercolor depictions add to the authenticity of the work. Cobblestone paths and olive trees are seen throughout the illustrations and help to solidify location and era.
This work was selected for the cultural markers and the straying from the traditional rescue by the prince and the strong character and determination of the Orphan.
Review completed by E. Nelson 04/17/13
The Rough-Face Girl is a shortened version of an Algonquin Indian tale. It is, at it's heart a Cinderella story. The Rough-Face Girl was treated cruelly by her sisters. She was made to tend the fire which led to sparks burning her face and arms. In this tale, the sisters are by birth and not marriage. In many ways this makes the cruelty worse. Also present is magic. This magic does not come in the form of a fairy godmother, but rather in the form of the invisible being and his sister. Many women want to marry the invisible being, but only the one who can see him may have the honor. Rough-Face Girls beautiful but cruel sisters try to marry the being but fail. The Rough-Face Girl, however, succeeds where others fail with her ability to see the beauty around her. She answers the questions posed to her and is chosen to marry the invisible being. She is sent to bath in the water and emerges as beautiful on the outside as she is on the inside. The details within the story lend to its cultural authenticity. And the universal theme of goodness prevailing over malice is wonderfully present.
The illustrations are wonderful in their depiction of life on Lake Ontario. The details are accurate and precise. The varying shades of skin and hair present a beautiful representation of the Algonquin people. Cultural details such as housing and utensils are present and correct. Overall, the illustrations make the story more rich and accurate.
This tale was selected for it's (its) North American cultural details. The richness of text and illustrations present a version of Cinderella which is unique to the continent.
Review completed by E. Nelson 04/17/13
This story is a West African folktale which contains some elements that link it to Cinderella. Chinye is a young woman whose parents have passed away and left her with a stepmother who does not like her. Chinye is forced to do all of the work and she does it without complaining. Chinye is a good woman and she does what she is told. One night Chinye is sent into the forest to bring back water; the forest is scary at night and Chinye is afraid. During her venture in the forest Chinye meets and old woman who tells her of the gourds. Chinye takes the woman’s advice and selects the smallest quietest gourd, not knowing what is in it. She is a strong character, she puts up with abuse from her stepmother and stepsister, she does not allow the abuse to break her, and she manages to trust the old woman by taking the small gourd. When Chinye discovers her riches within the small gourd, she first tells her stepmother and does not hide it from her.
The imagery in the selection contains bright bold African art. All of the clothing has bright geometric shapes and designs. The story was written by Obi Onyefulu who is a native of Onitsha, Nigeria where this tale originated. The story is based on her own culture.
This selection was included because we can see that Chinye is a strong woman and as the story progresses she becomes stronger and independent.
Review completed by M. Dupuis. 4/17/13
This version of Cinderella is based on Charles Perrault's French tale. The tale is one which most people are familiar. This version includes all of the classic elements of the tale including the cruel stepmother and sisters as well as the fairy godmother. The inclusion of noblemen and castles place the setting in Europe, though specifics as to the geography are missing. Nowhere within the story are specific cultural markers which name the tale as French in origin.
The illustrations are whimsical in nature. The color pallet is dominated with purple and yellow tones which lends to a cohesion of the artwork. However, the illustrations do not significantly lend to any cultural location. That being said, they do not detract from the folktale but rather give a modern element to it lending to the universal theme and timelessness of the tale.
This version of the tale was selected due to it's (its) nature as a translation of the French version. This is possibly the weakest of the versions selected.
Review completed by E. Nelson 04/17/13
Media Resources
After the death of her father, Danielle is made the servant of her mean stepmother. She also has two stepsisters, one who is nice and one who is vain and cruel. Enter a handsome prince who has troubles of his own and Da Vinci and you get a different take on the traditional tale.
Intent on attending Princeton, Sam works hard for her obsessed stepmom while putting up with her hateful stepsister. Pen pals Sam and Nomad talk about their dreams and meet unknowingly at a school dance. Sam leaves behind her cell phone and magic ensues. Eventually, Sam and Austin "Nomad" find each other, Sam is accepted to Princeton, and everyone lives happily ever after.
Ella is cursed to always be obediant in the twist on Cinderella. Unlike Cinderella, Ella's troubles are caused by her Fairy Godmother's gift and she must rely on herself to overcome it.
This mix of animation and live action is a twist on the classis tale of Cinderella with a mix of other fairy tales. Giselle, a would be princess is pushed down a wishing well by the evil queen. Giselle finds herself in New York and discovers that she has th power to not only be rescued but to rescue those she loves.
Traditional telling of the Brother's Grimm version of Cinderella.
Selected due to author and content. Alternative format to picture book for differentiated instruction.
Web Resources - Selected websites to facilitate selection of additional materials and learning outcomes.
http://www.portraitmagazine.net/archives/tenbooks20.html Lists of Cinderella based novels. Students must select one.http://www.deschuteslibrary.org/kids/reading/cinderellastories.aspx Additional list of Cinderella picture books subdivided by region.
http://www.intel.com/content/dam/www/program/education/us/en/documents/project-design/cinderella/cinderella-resources.pdf Additional list of Cinderella stories and resources.
http://www.ala.org/offices/resources/multicultural A bibliography of Cinderella picture books and novels.
Additional Resources Added Upon Review:
(978-0440413639)
Sootfaceis an Obijwa Cinderella tale. A widow raises his three daughters alone. The youngest is tormented by her older siblings. She dreams of a warrior husband of her own. Her kindness makes her dreams possible.
*This selection is included by recommendation of Dr. J. Moriellon and in response to more favorable reviews than other selections.
Glass Slipper, Gold Sandal: A Worldwide Cinderella merges worldwide versions of Cinderella into one story. The author transitions from one version to another with the help of illustrations by Julie Paschkis.
*This selection is included by recommendation of Dr. J. Moriellon.
This is the Czech version of Cinderella and is a holiday favorite of the region.
*This version is included but was not available for review at the time of this resource development.